Blood pressure reflects the force of blood against artery walls, indicating the efficiency of the circulatory system and the health of the heart and blood vessels. Regular monitoring helps identify potential cardiovascular concerns. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure range supports adequate blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout the body while minimizing strain on the heart.
What Blood Pressure Numbers Mean
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers, like 120/80 mmHg. The top number is the systolic pressure, measuring the force of blood when the heart beats and pumps blood out. The bottom number is the diastolic pressure, indicating the pressure when the heart rests between beats and refills with blood. For most adults, a healthy blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. Elevated blood pressure is defined as a systolic reading between 120-129 mmHg and a diastolic reading less than 80 mmHg.
Understanding a 113/50 Reading
A blood pressure reading of 113/50 mmHg indicates specific cardiovascular function. The systolic pressure of 113 mmHg is normal. However, the diastolic reading of 50 mmHg is low. This combination suggests isolated diastolic hypotension, where diastolic pressure is low while systolic pressure remains healthy.
A low diastolic pressure is important because coronary arteries receive blood primarily during the diastolic phase. If diastolic pressure is too low, the heart may not receive sufficient blood and oxygen, potentially leading to weakening over time. Therefore, even with a normal systolic reading, a diastolic pressure of 50 mmHg requires attention and monitoring to assess its implications for heart function and arterial elasticity.
Factors Contributing to Low Diastolic Pressure
Several factors and medical conditions can contribute to a low diastolic blood pressure reading, even when systolic pressure is normal.
- Age-related arterial stiffness: Arteries become less flexible, causing systolic pressure to rise while diastolic pressure falls.
- Medications: These include drugs for hypertension (alpha-blockers, calcium channel blockers, diuretics), antidepressants, Parkinson’s disease medications, and erectile dysfunction drugs.
- Dehydration: Reduced blood volume can directly lower diastolic pressure.
- Underlying heart conditions: Aortic regurgitation, where the aortic valve does not close properly, can decrease diastolic pressure.
- Endocrine disorders: Conditions like adrenal insufficiency or hypothyroidism can impact vascular tone.
- Severe infections: Sepsis can also lead to lower diastolic readings.
A single reading is not definitive. Healthcare professionals consider trends over time and a person’s overall health history.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Individuals with a blood pressure reading of 113/50 mmHg should consult a healthcare professional. Seek medical attention if symptoms are present. Symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting when standing up quickly. Other signs include persistent fatigue, nausea, blurred vision, or cold and clammy skin.
Consistent blood pressure monitoring over time provides a more complete picture of cardiovascular health than a single reading. Discussing concerns with a doctor allows for a personalized assessment, which may involve further tests to identify the underlying cause of low diastolic pressure. While maintaining a healthy lifestyle supports cardiovascular health, medical guidance is important for addressing this reading and its implications.